Whether you’re looking for your future spouse or dipping your toes in the casual dating scene, dating apps have become the norm for meeting new people.
Meeting your partner at work or through mutual friends are still the most common ways to find a partner, but according to YouGov.co.uk, 12% people have met their significant other via dating apps or dating websites last year.
If you’re new to the dating scene, and feeling uncertain of how to proceed, we have some top tips to navigate getting on the apps.
Define your dating needs and research the best app
There are a lot of apps around and not all of them will be catered to your needs. Whether you’re looking for short-term/casual, a life partner or have essential aspects of your identity that must be catered for, such as being LGBTIQ+ or religious, make sure you choose an app where you can meet others looking for the same thing.
Check the reviews and their customer support responsiveness
Before joining an app or a site, it’s always a good idea to read the reviews and figure out how responsive the customer support is. You can check the Google reviews or forums on Reddit. Check if the service’s website has an FAQ, customer support and means to get in touch.
Always test the free version first
Most applications are free, but others will want you to pay to join. A free trial is great to test the waters and see if the service is good or if getting the paid version can be more fruitful.
Work on your profile
Before jumping straight to swiping or getting a paid membership: spend some time crafting your profile. The fact is that you won’t get many quality matches if your profile has no description, no pictures or just a few ones.
Ask your friends to take or send nice pictures of you they have. Try to write a couple of short paragraphs on your description and/or to fill in some of the prompts suggested by your app.
Be succinct and honest about what you’re looking for to ensure your matches are aligned with your hopes.
For paid apps or premium versions: read your cancellation policy
We’ve previously covered how dating apps premiums can be sneaky. That’s why it’s important to read the cancellation policy thoroughly so you can understand what you’re signing up for. Look for clauses on refunds or early termination fees and learn how to deactivate your account or cancel subscriptions to avoid unexpected charges.
Beware of scammers
Dating apps are not immune to scams, on the contrary, romance scams have become even more common. Avoid sharing sensitive information and be cautious about people who seem too good to be true. Read our piece on How to spot a romance scam to learn how to stay safe and what to do if you’ve fallen victim.
Stay positive but realistic
Dating apps and services are a great way to meet new people. But you are unlikely to meet the person of your dreams right away. Don’t get discouraged by rejections or unmatched expectations – these are part of the experience and not a sign that there is something wrong with you.
Take your time
Some people will meet a match in days or weeks, others will take longer to go on a first date. Don’t feel pressured to respond immediately or rush into meeting in person. Everyone is different but remember that dating and building up relationships take time.
Be clear about your deal breakers
A deal breaker is something that indicates that you cannot enter a relationship with this person. Very often it’s related to values, relationship styles etc. If you want kids and they don’t, if you’re polyamorous and they’re strictly monogamous, if they’re looking for casual dating and you’re not: those are deal breakers. Deal breakers show incompatibility and can rarely be overcome.
Be respectful
The best for last. Always do your utmost to communicate in a respectful manner. Remember you’re engaging with other human beings with their own lives and challenges – don’t insult, nag, troll, or ghost people.
Communicate if you can’t respond quickly, or, if you don’t wish to continue with someone, simply tell them. There’s no point in leaving people hanging on.
If you have any thoughts on this topic, or any other consumer issues you would like us to cover, feel free to get in touch with us at support@resolver.co.uk.